Leading Lorry
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Drivers Astray
ROBABLY because of the spacious car park that flanks the 1 main Birmingham-Stratford road at the foot of Liverish Hill, lorry drivers who have lost their way frequently stop at "The Bird in Hand" to seek advice as to their whereabouts
from John Timings, the licensee. "It is not surprising," observes John, "that road transport costs are so high when so many lorry drivers have only the vaguest idea of their destination and route on leaving their depots.
"For example, a Coventry driver who was on his way to Hockley (near the centre of Birmingham) was directed to Hockley Heath some 12 miles to the south of the city, and when he arrived here (over 14 miles from Hockley) he asked for Hoxton. The possession of a route card would have cut the time and mileage of the journey by at least 60 per cent, and possibly more."
Give 'ern a Map
How much wastage is there that can be debited to route uncertainties? Judging by long experience, John Timings considers it borders on the excessive. I wonder how right he is? During the wat John was an officer in the Royal Signals and was at one time in charge of a fleet of vehicles on the Ccntinent. So he has a ready appreciation of drivers' difficultici and their problems.
Give them a good map," he advises, "and they'll take a pride in making sure where they're going." a30
Well Done, That Club
THE B.M.C. Drivers Club, which—as we reported last week' has now passed the 100,000-member milestone, is hereby nominated for a round of applause. Indeed, the round of applause should embrace all the other similar clubs like the Dodge and the Perkins ones.
These clubs really do a splendid job. Some idea of what they do can be gleaned from the latest figures relating to the B.M.C. club, which did not come into being until late 1955. Over £13,000 in I;eath or injury benefits has been distributed to members. Well in excess of 15.000 safety awards have been
presented. Other free benefits 'include legal advice and recommended lists of rest houses.
Yes, that applause has been earned the hard way.
American Tour
A N independent English coach operator is seriously thinking,
am told, of starting a reciprocal agreement with an American operator whereby each sells holiday tours to the other's country. Each coach operator would be responsible for the transport arrangements in his own country. I can imagine that—as already happens—Americans would buy that type of holiday, but do question whether • English people would want—or could afford—an American touring holiday. However, I suppose the U.K. coach operator is all right, Jack.
Iffore Hands Across the Sea
IHEAR that a brand new ferry with several striking features 1 is to be placed in service between Britain and the Continent by the end Of May, 1962. Accommodation is to be provided For both cars and commercial vehicles, and full details should be forthcoming within a month or so.
Launched
WHEN Veedol Ltd., introduced their range of engine
oils to Britain last week, the term "launching " was applicable in more ways than one. The Press reception was held at millionaire Paul Getty's home, Sutton Place, and as the weather was fine the guests were invited to make use of Mr. Getty's private swimming pool, thereby making it one of the wettest, but most enjoyable, Press functions of the year.